What You Should Know About Safety in the Workplace

If anything, a workplace should always feel safe for its employees. Every place of business should have policies and practices in place to ensure everyone’s well being. If these important structures are not taken into account or established properly, it can lead to a lot of serious and harmful situations. As an employee, you should make yourself aware of your safety situation in your workplace. There are plenty of ways to double check that you and your coworkers are practicing safe workplace etiquette.

Know Your Emergency Exits

Although this is a pretty obvious idea, it is still very important to note. Emergency exits are your way of escaping a dangerous situation. If you work on the upper floors of an office building, you should also take notice of where the stairs are located and how far they are from where you work. Windows can also serve as emergency exits in certain situations, so make sure that you know how to exit easily and safely from your workplace in the face of harm. Even more important, these emergency areas should always be kept clear. Avoid putting heavy equipment or storage in the way of an exit because these can create hazards and block people from safely exiting during an emergency.

Always Take Your Breaks

Breaks are important not only because they give you the chance to take a breather every once in a while, but also because the human body wasn’t made to endure long hours of work without rest. Many workplace accidents happen because someone is tired or burned out from working too hard for too long, and they aren’t as alert as they should be. By taking regular breaks, you can refresh yourself and keep your mind alert. Concentration is hard to maintain when you’re exhausted, so keep track of your breaks and keep an eye on your fellow coworkers. Remind them not to miss their lunch breaks so that they can remain attentive for the rest of the workday.

Know Where Your First Aid Kit Is

Every workshop should have a first aid kit. If there ever is an accident that leads to an injury, make sure that you know the location of this kit. They’re generally stocked with things like antiseptic ointment, bandages, cold compresses, and other necessary equipment. When there’s an accident, speed is an important factor. You’ll want to make sure that you’re able to not only retrieve the first aid kit, but that you’re also able to use the items inside it. Get familiar with what your kit does and doesn’t have so that you’re prepared should the situation arise.

Don’t Take Shortcuts

When using equipment or machinery, don’t take chances. Use the proper techniques and precautions to keep yourself and your coworkers from harm. These regulations are in place for a reason, and that reason is not to make your job any harder. By following these rules and regulations, you decrease the likelihood of an accident because you’re using the machine as intended and not taking any shortcuts. Make sure that you’re always using the correct tools for the job and that you’re always exercising caution.

Never underestimate great advice. If you’re unsure of something, seek advice from others. If you’re have questions about sanders, you’d get sheet sander advice from an expert, right? The same thing applies to more dangerous equipment. If you’re unsure, swallow your pride and get advice.

Report Any Unsafe Conditions

If you ever see anything that makes you feel unsafe or goes against safety regulations, make sure that your supervisor is made aware of it. If there’s a lot of heavy boxes blocking an emergency stairway, your boss should know about it and the hazard should be removed. If there are any risks attached to your job, your boss should notify you of them beforehand. If you notice or foresee anything outside of what you’ve been told, make sure that your supervisor knows. It’s their responsibility to maintain a safe working environment, and they will make sure to take care of any dangerous issues you bring to them.

Don’t wait until there’s an emergency to worry about workplace safety. Use these tips to hold yourself and your coworkers accountable for maintaining a safe and productive work environment.

David Allred has been working from home as an internet marketer, blogger and serial entrepreneur for nearly a decade. In addition to writing occasionally on GoodIdeasandTips, he spends most of his time with his family, volunteer coaching, hooping it up or eating cookies.